One tradition welcomes another at Ford Hoosier Outdoor Experience

The free Ford Hoosier Outdoor Experience has carved a niche on the state’s September calendar as it enters its fifth year.

On Sept. 21-22, that tradition re-awakens at Fort Harrison State Park in Indianapolis and sets the stage for another.

Traditional Arts Indiana, which debuted last year, will expand its on-site offerings. Drum makers and musicians, a hoop net maker, a plant tradition bearer, and a limestone crafter and gravestone maker will teach participants about their crafts.

TAI is just one of more than 50 outdoor activities offered free. Just about everything from archery and target shooting to mountain biking, horseback riding, fishing and kayaking is offered at no cost to participants. All equipment is provided. All activities, parking and admission are free.

A record 25,500 people attended last year. Room for more awaits in the heavily wooded, spacious, historic 1,700 acres of former Army base. Participants can even bring their own food, although food booths will be available. To view a video of last year’s highlights, see http://youtu.be/knvmmJ8DquQ.

The Ford Hoosier Outdoor Experience runs 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day that weekend. Made possible by the generosity of Central Indiana Ford dealers, the event is presented by the DNR and the Indiana Natural Resources Foundation. The goal is to introduce people to outdoor activities they may have never tried.